Police in Lancashire have given bouncers extra time to obtain a licence after clubs feared they would be forced to shut.

New laws coming into force on Sunday mean door staff must be licensed by the Security Industry Authority.

But, so far, only one doorman is licensed in Blackpool and other towns and cities have experienced a similarly slow uptake by bouncers.

Doormen now have until the beginning of February 2005.

Chief Insp Jon Donnelly, Lancashire Constabulary's Licensing Co-ordinator, said: "From 15 November 2004, police intend to be flexible and use discretion in relation to how they enforce this legislation."

Until the 4 February 2005, bouncers operating without an SIA licence will be required to demonstrate registration with a local scheme, from 14 November, and that an application has been made to the SIA, to avoid being reported.

Chief Insp Donnelly added: "From 4 February 2005, police will adopt a robust approach and individuals found to be working as door supervisors without an SIA licence can expect to be prosecuted."

Clubs across the county face a dilemma because each application takes up to six weeks to be approved and costs £190 per door supervisor.

The cost, according to Chief Insp Donnelly, may prompt some door staff to leave their jobs.

"I don't expect 100% of current door supervisors to stay because of the cost," he said. "The onus is on the pubs and clubs to ensure their staff are registered."